Dry start then wind and rain expected for 81-mile cycle challenge

Cycle event: Thousands of cyclists to take part in 81-mile challenge.

Five thousand cyclists are heading for Perthshire on Sunday for what's become one of the UK's top biking events.

The Marie Curie Cancer Care Etape Caledonia sees competitors tackle an 81-mile course from 6.30am on Sunday.

It takes them through some of the Big County's most scenic areas, starting and finishing in Pitlochry.

Pete Wishart MP will join together with Robbie McIntosh, Marie Curie’s Scottish Events Manager, to officially open the event.

Mr Wishart said: “I have watched this event grow and blossom over the past six years and it is undoubtedly a flagship event, not just for British cycling but for Highland Perthshire as a destination. With thousands of participants raising money for Marie Curie Cancer Care, a very worthwhile cause, this event creates a long lasting legacy that will be appreciated by many for years to come.”

The event has regularly attracted high profile celebrities and sports personalities over the years, and participants this year will have the chance to ride alongside Ross Ford, a professional rugby union player and captain of the 2012 Six Nations Championship. Ross will be riding to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care on the day.

STV’s weatherman Sean Batty warned the forecast was mixed for the event.

He said a dry start is expected for the race but a strengthening westerly wind is likely to challenge riders in the later part of the day. There also could be driving rain and gales on the higher part of the course.

Tayside Police has warned people participating in the event or watching to prepare in advance for the weather.

A spokeswoman said: "It is expected that the wet and windy weather will reach parts of Tayside, with gale force south westerly winds potentially gusting at speeds of 60mph on the hills. Mindful that there are likely to be numerous outdoor events, not least the annual Etape Caledonia cycling event in Highland Perthshire, Tayside Police is asking people to be prepared."

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